25th Nov 2009
Rare Koi Fish
Kois are kept for many reasons other than its ornamental quality. Believed to be the symbol of love and friendship, these fishes bring some kind of good energy to any home. Their peaceful nature makes them great pets and the varied colors they come with are excellent for beautifying any tank or pond. The unique qualities of these fishes make them very much appreciated in the hobby and are often made collections. Every koi fish is unique and even if some of their colors and patterns may show similarities, no two of these species could ever be alike. To better distinguish each koi and from what lineage they belong, people came up with a way to classify these fishes. The basic varieties of Kois are identified according to their colors, patterns and scales.
White kois with red markings, the more popularly seen, is the Kohaku variety. Like the Kohaku, the Sanke is basically white, but it has red and black accents to it. Similarly, the Showa variety is white in appearance, but red and black markings are more predominant. Another red and white variety is the Koromo, but the blue-bordered scales on top of the red make it more distinguishable. Kois with blue backs are the Asagi variety. The Shusui has similar colorations with Asagi. This one, though, represents a single line of mirror-like scales on its back. Ogon are metallic with a single solid color. Kois in solid colors but with black blotches are the Bekko variety. Utsuri mono have black bodies but with the presence of white, yellow or red patterns on it. Kumonryu has black bodies with white markings on it, but the patterns over the black appear to be some shower clouds. Kin-gin-rin, a metallic scaled Koi variety, is considered one of the most beautiful species of Koi because of its sparkled scales. The Tancho variety is either solid white or black with a single red patch over its head. Kawarimonos are kois that cannot be categorized with the other varieties.
An average Koi owner does not need to be that versed about the terms to describe Kois. These breeds could actually be described in many aspects, each way no less correct than the other. With its many combined features, different people have different names applied to a certain breed of Koi. But apart from the numerous varieties of Koi, there are rare kinds of Koi constantly sought for by many enthusiasts. The metallic properties (Hikari) of Koi are prized, and in certain varieties, are even purposely bred for. Hikari Utsuri is one that is much appreciated for its beautiful display of luster. Kin Rin Koi is among the rarest varieties and well admired because of its pear-gold reflective scales. Among the Bekko variety, Ki bekko is a yellow koi with black markings are the rarest breeds. Ki Utsuri, an Utsurimono variety has black base color with yellow markings. Attractive as it is, this kind is not easily available. Tancho Showa, Doitsu Goromo-Shokikubai, Gin Rin Matsakawabake, Gin Rin Sanke, Aka Mizuho Ogon and Aka Matsuba are considered rare as well.
Though more common kois may cost you a few tens of dollars, the rare varieties may fetch a price of hundreds to even a few thousands. With the beauty and positive energy of these fishes, enthusiasts are more willing to bid and pay for a rare koi fish. Anyone would be intrigued with its very unique patterns. Kois are truly show and collection quality species.
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